The growth of the over sixty-five population and the recognition of the enormous implications of this growth for the well-being of our society is the basis for this vital text.In earlier days of gerontology, research methods used were often simply those same methods used in researching younger are groups. As one may clearly surmise, the transferral of these traditional methods were apt to pose some special problems when imported for use with the aged; traditional methods had to be adjusted to take account of age related differences. ""Special Research Methods for Gerontology"" recognizes the need to study older people in their great variety as a broad class, as opposed to ""the elderly"".The content of the volume deals with longitudinal studies, cross sectional research, theory based methodological work, special methods and procedures that contribute to the soundness of the design and research method.